The 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
Some of us lie awake at night, tossing and turning, grappling with questions that could potentially affect the cosmic balance of the universe. In the absence of light, does time slows down, or even stop, in a black hole? Do fish drink water? How do blind people dream? How can Ford top the perpetually best selling F150 series?
Luckily, SOME questions do have answers.
Ford’s in house team of tune-up experts, the Special Vehicle Team (SVT) came up with the answer (for the last question, that is. Don’t hold your breath for the first one – even Einstein couldn’t figure that out).
Introducing, the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, the most powerful road production truck ever built. Powered by a 6.2L Boss V8 engine, this behemoth is capable of generating over 410 horsepower and 430 ft-lb torque, perfect for its 4600lbs weight and 17 foot length. The 6-speed transmission, complete with a 4.10: 1 Electronic Differential Axle and enhanced with a Tow/Haul Mode (capable of heaving trailers, boats and repossessed cars, up to a maximum Class III 6,000 lb) provides a seminal four-wheel driving experience.
The amazingly smooth ride comes courtesy of the FOX Racing Shox, in a much applauded production vehicle debut. The supporting act features an appearance by the enhanced 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires with a 17-inch cast-aluminum wheel and the AdvanceTrac traction control system, perfect for climbing elevated shrubberies and those hard to handle road dividers. Sending your kids to soccer practice has never been this fun.
With a base price of $38,020, this chiseled, muscular and good-looking Charlton Heston of the trucking world also offers a roomy and elegant interior, equipped with Sony sound system, automatic temperature controls, 10-way adjustable power leather seat, voice activated Sirius navigation system and much more.
Verdict: After selling over six gazillion units of them, the Ford F150 series have become a national monument, and we have come to accept its place in our way of life. The Raptor holds true to the tradition of strength and reliability that its forefathers are renowned for . Even as we speak, plans are underway to carve an image of the F150 on Mount Rushmore, next to President Washington. Need we say more?
